Breezy Point 5K raises money for people seeking drug and alcohol treatment

DULUTH, Minn. (Northern News Now) – Runners hit the road Saturday morning near Island Lake for the Breezy Point 5K, this marks the 16th year for the annual run.

The event is a fundraiser for a faith-based drug and alcohol treatment program called the Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge.

Founder Stevie Paulson said the race has grown in popularity.

In its first year, about 25 runners took part, now they expected around 500 participants.

Money raised from the 5K helps make programming in the treatment program available to people who may otherwise not be able to pay.

According to Paulson, the services the program provides impact both people in treatment and their families and loved ones.

“We’re not just helping the guys in the program. We’ve seen families come here and they give me and my wife hugs and they thank us for our support,” said Stevie Paulson, founder & organizer for the Breezy Point 5K. “It’s their sibling or their child or their parent’s success in this program. It’s really gratifying.”

More than 90 local sponsors took part in the event.

Last year the 5K raised $89,000, and Paulson is hoping to top that number this year.

For donation and participation information about the Breezy Point 5K, click here.

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